THE K.I.S.S. PRINCIPLE
Many people, when they come to frame something, ask for the K.I.S.S. principles - "Keep it Simple, Stupid." (Of course, they are too polite to call us "Stupid".)
We hear you. We understand you. And what's more, we agree with you. Whether it's an oil painting, a diploma or needlework, the art is the first thing one should see when entering a room, not the framing. The framing of a painting or print is a presentation of that painting or print to its best advantage. It should enhance, embellish and emphasize the picture. It should never overpower the subject
MATS
Mats serve a dual purpose:
1. Aesthetic: they provide a visual "breathing space" between the artwork and the frame, wallpaper or paneling. Mats enhance colors within the artwork and can add depth and interest.
Two important rules of thumb:
• Mats should enhance, not detract.
• You should always frame for the piece, not for the room. Don't add a purple mat just because it is in the room! If there is no purple in the artwork, it will detract from it
2. Protective: Mats help to keep the artwork away from the glass. There needs to be room for air to circulate to prevent condensation and mildew. Acid-free mat board prevents harmful acids from discoloring and harming valuable artwork.
CONSERVATION FRAMING
Conservation framing is an important service provided by an experienced custom framer. Conservation framing protects your original artwork or other items with monetary or sentimental value.
The matting and the mounting are the two most important elements in conservation framing. If permanently mounted flat to a board, valuable paper artwork loses its value. It is considered damaged.
Your framer should instead use acid-free hinges so the artwork will "float free" on top of an acid-free backing. Conservation framing will cost more than regular matting and mounting, but it is a necessary expense if you value the artwork you are framing and wish to enjoy it year after year.
HOW WIDE SHOULD THE MAT BORDER BE?
Generally, the larger the picture, the wider your top mat should be. Also, the more inner (accent) mats you use, the wider the top mat should be. When using several inner mats, it is generally more attractive to vary their widths.
Generally speaking, the mat should be wider then the frame. If mat and frame are the same size, the finished piece can look static. Mats serve as a visual breathing space between the image and the frame. If your mat is too narrow, it creates a distraction rather than an enhancement. Of course, these are general guidelines and there are always exceptions.
L.I.F.E.
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